July 26-29, 2023

Camp Akita, 1684 Knox Rd 1200 N, Gilson, IL 61436

Our theme this year centers around the question, “How Shall We Go?” Jesus authorizes those who would come after Him to, “Therefore, Go.” We will reflect on that theme of the Great Commission within the context of these turbulent days. Our Family Camp Meeting provides an opportunity to get away, to be around the community of faith, to reset our spiritual batteries, and to enjoy the beautiful outdoors provided by our getaway retreat center. While we pray it will be a time of relaxation, a time for slowing the inner rpm’s of our lives down, we also pray that this will all serve to prepare the way for Jesus and His Spirit to become noticeably present in each life. With the variety of offered activities, all ages can enjoy this respite. This annual gathering can remind us of what is most important during these last days. The invitation is to come, replenish, and consider the works of God in our lives and in our times. I am reminded of those inspiring words: “In reviewing our past history, having traveled over every step of advance to our present standing, I can say, Praise God! As I see what God has wrought, I am filled with astonishment, and with confidence in Christ as leader. We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us, and His teaching in our history.” (CET 204)

 

Guest Speakers

 

Rodney Wiley is a commissioned lay pastor at the Richland Bridge SDA Church and has dedicated his life to this incredible ministry. He is a graduate of Loma Linda University and is a diplomate in multiple sleep academies. He provides treatment for sleep-disordered breathing, snoring, obstructive sleep apnea, and oral facial pain – without the CPAP, surgery, or prescriptions. In his free time, he golfs and spends time with family – especially Donna.

Rodney will be presenting during the morning seminars.

 

Donna Willey is a commissioned lay pastor at the Richland Bridge SDA Church in Illinois, a church family she dearly loves. She serves on the board for “Child Impact Internal” a ministry she is passionate about. Donna is the author of two books, ‘Move the Stone’ and ‘Empty.’ She is an inspirational speaker, nationally and internationally. With a love for Bible prophecy, she teaches regular classes on the gospel of Revelation. Her free time is spent in reading, bicycling, and spending time with family – especially Rod.

Donna will be presenting during the morning seminars.

 

Danaran Frederick will be preaching for the Wednesday evening, Thursday morning and evening, and Friday morning worships.

 

Hugo Yin is a Christian singer, author and inspirational speaker born in Los Angeles, California. In 2002 he formed part of a vocal worship group called Forgiven and in 2008 he decided to follow his calling to be a full-time music minister. That year he was also married to Addi Morales whom he shares his calling with. Hugo has travelled extensively throughout Latin America, Europe and the US and Canada singing about how the Lord has saved and changed his life.

 

Michael Campos is a native of Chicago and is also a graduate of Broadview Academy. Before coming back to Illinois, he pastored in Michigan. Last fall, he began serving as Executive Secretary for the Illinois Conference, but prior to his new role, served as Youth and Young Director. He considers it an incredible privilege to serve God and the church in helping people of all ages come into a growing relationship with God. Michael is married to Erika, and together they are the proud parents of Nayla, Julietta, and Stephen. Together they enjoy traveling, enjoying new cuisines, playing different sports and reading.

Elder Michael will be preaching on Friday evening.

 

As a son of Illinois, John Grys grew up in the city of Chicago and graduated from Broadview Academy. John currently serves as President of the Illinois Conference. He has pastored in Florida, Virginia, Tennessee, California, and Washington state. He has served as Ministerial Director in Illinois and as Associate Ministerial Director for the North American Division. John received his Doctor of Ministry degree with an emphasis in Leadership from Andrews University in 2011 and is an adjunct professor in the Seminary at Andrews University.

Elder John will be preaching on Sabbath.

 

Schedule